Ryan Miller

Both former Buffalo Sabres players Ryan Miller and Thomas Vanek are back in the NHL, but not as players.

Sabres owner Terry Pegula wants to keep former Sioux Falls Stampede star Thomas Vanek and goalie Ryan Miller in Buffalo beyond next season, while acknowledging both players will have a say in determining their futures.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman maintains the league will lock out players Sunday if a new labor deal isn't reached, and star player Sidney Crosby isn't optimistic the season will start on time.